U.S. patent application number 12/976734 was filed with the patent office on 2012-06-28 for absorbent articles with multiple active graphics.
This patent application is currently assigned to KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.. Invention is credited to Thomas Michael Ales, Eric Donald Johnson, Tami L. Kurtz, Robert E. MacDonald, Terri Lynn Meisel, Shannon K. Melius, Jennifer Leigh Skabroud Misek, Marcille Faye Ruman, Mary L. Schwer.
Application Number | 20120165771 12/976734 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46314534 |
Filed Date | 2012-06-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120165771 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ruman; Marcille Faye ; et
al. |
June 28, 2012 |
Absorbent Articles With Multiple Active Graphics
Abstract
Absorbent articles are disclosed that have been printed with
active graphics alone or in combination with permanent graphics.
The active graphics may be used, for instance, as a wetness
indicator on an absorbent article. In accordance with the present
disclosure, the active graphics include at least one disappearing
graphic and at least one appearing graphic. The disappearing
graphic and appearing graphic allow for complete scene changes on
the article and also allow for the illusion of movement of objects
in the scene.
Inventors: |
Ruman; Marcille Faye;
(Oshkosh, WI) ; Melius; Shannon K.; (Appleton,
WI) ; Schwer; Mary L.; (Neenah, WI) ;
MacDonald; Robert E.; (Kohler, WI) ; Johnson; Eric
Donald; (Larsen, WI) ; Ales; Thomas Michael;
(Neenah, WI) ; Misek; Jennifer Leigh Skabroud;
(Neenah, WI) ; Meisel; Terri Lynn; (Appleton,
WI) ; Kurtz; Tami L.; (Oshkosh, WI) |
Assignee: |
KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE,
INC.
Neenah
WI
|
Family ID: |
46314534 |
Appl. No.: |
12/976734 |
Filed: |
December 22, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
604/361 ;
604/385.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 13/42 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/361 ;
604/385.01 |
International
Class: |
A61F 13/42 20060101
A61F013/42 |
Claims
1. An absorbent article comprising; an outer cover having an
interior surface and an exterior surface; an absorbent structure
positioned adjacent the interior surface of the outer cover; and
graphics incorporated into the absorbent article such that the
graphics are visible from a surface of the absorbent article, the
graphics depicting a scene on the absorbent article, the graphics
including a first active graphic and a second active graphic, and
wherein the first active graphic comprises a disappearing graphic
and the second active graphic comprising an appearing graphic.
2. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic disappears and the second active graphic appears
when contacted with an activation agent.
3. An absorbent article as defined in claim 2, wherein the
absorbent article defines a transverse center line and wherein the
first active graphic is positioned closer to the transverse center
line than the second active graphic.
4. An absorbent article as defined in claim 2, wherein the
absorbent article defines a transverse center line and wherein the
second active graphic is positioned closer to the transverse center
line than the first active graphic.
5. An absorbent article as defined in claim 2, wherein the
activation agent comprises a body exudate.
6. An absorbent article as defined in claim 2, wherein the graphics
depict an object and wherein the first active graphic and the
second active graphic cause the object to change into a different
object when the active graphics are contacted with the activation
agent.
7. An absorbent article as defined in claim 6, wherein the object
comprises a character.
8. An absorbent article as defined in claim 2, wherein the scene
created by the graphics include a background scene and wherein the
first active graphic and the second active graphic cause the
background scene to change into a different background scene when
the absorbent article is contacted with the activation agent.
9. An absorbent article as defined in claim 2, wherein the scene
created by the graphics include a foreground scene and wherein the
first active graphic and the second active graphic cause the
foreground scene to change into a different foreground scene when
the absorbent article is contacted with the activation agent.
10. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic cause a complete scene
change to occur when the active graphics are activated.
11. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic depicts a first image and the second active graphic
depicts a second image, the first image and the second image being
of an object in the scene and wherein, when the active graphics are
activated and the first active graphic disappears and the second
active graphic appears, an illusion of movement of the object
occurs.
12. An absorbent article as defined in claim 11, wherein the object
comprises a ball, a toy, a character, a vehicle, an animal, or a
portion of any of the above.
13. An absorbent article as defined in claim 11, wherein the
graphics further include a third active graphic comprising a
disappearing graphic and a fourth active graphic comprising an
appearing graphic and wherein the third active graphic depicts a
third image and the fourth active graphic depicts a fourth image,
the third image and the fourth image being of a second object in
the scene and wherein, when the active graphics are activated, an
illusion of movement of both objects occurs.
14. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic are in an overlapping
relationship.
15. An absorbent article as defined in claim 14, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic comprise at least a
portion of a single character.
16. An absorbent article as defined in claim 15, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic cause an expression
appearing on the character to change when contacted with an
activation agent.
17. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic are in a
non-overlapping relationship.
18. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic is comprised of a color changing ink
composition.
19. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the second
active graphic is comprised of a color changing ink
composition.
20. An absorbent article as defined in claim 11, wherein the
graphics further include a third active graphic that comprises a
color changing graphic.
21. An absorbent article as defined in claim 13, wherein the third
active graphic and the fourth active graphic are comprised of a
color changing ink composition.
22. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic are visible from an
outside surface of the absorbent article.
23. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic are visible from an
inside surface of the absorbent article.
24. An absorbent article as defined in claim 1, wherein the first
active graphic and the second active graphic are formed by applying
an active graphic composition onto the outer cover of the absorbent
article, the outer cover having a printable surface area, the
active graphics occupying from about 1% to about 20% of the
printable surface area of the outer cover.
25. An absorbent article as defined in claim 24, wherein all of the
graphics present have a total surface area of at least 1000
mm.sup.2.
26. An absorbent article comprising: an outer cover and an
absorbent structure positioned adjacent to the outer cover, the
outer cover including a liquid impermeable layer having a first
surface that faces the absorbent structure and a second surface
that faces away from the absorbent structure; and graphics
incorporated into the absorbent article such that the graphics are
visible on the absorbent article, the graphics including a first
active graphic that comprises a first active graphic composition
applied to the first surface of the outer cover and a second active
graphic comprising a second active graphic composition also applied
to the first surface of the outer cover, and wherein one of the
active graphics comprises a disappearing graphic that changes from
visible to invisible when contacted with an activation agent and
wherein the other active graphic comprises an appearing graphic
that changes from invisible to visible when contacted with the
activation agent.
27. An absorbent article as defined in claim 26, wherein the outer
cover comprises a liquid permeable outer layer and a liquid
impermeable inner layer, the first active graphic composition and
the second active graphic composition both being applied to the
liquid impermeable inner layer on the first surface of the outer
cover.
28. An absorbent article as defined in claim 26, wherein the
absorbent article further includes permanent graphics, the
permanent graphics being located on a surface of the liquid
impermeable inner layer opposite the active graphics.
29. An absorbent article as defined in claim 27, wherein the
absorbent article further includes permanent graphics, the
permanent graphics being located on a surface of the liquid
impermeable inner layer on the same side as the active
graphics.
30. An absorbent article as defined in claim 26, wherein the
absorbent article includes a crotch region and a waist opening and
wherein the first active graphic depicts a first image and the
second active graphic depicts a second image, the first image and
the second image being of an object in the scene and wherein, when
the active graphics are activated and the first active graphic
disappears and the second active graphic appears, an illusion of
movement of the object occurs, and wherein the second active
graphic is located closer to the waist opening in relation to the
first active graphic.
31. An absorbent article as defined in claim 26, wherein the second
active graphic comprises an appearing graphic and wherein the
second active graphic composition contains a permanent ink blended
with an appearing ink.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Many different types of absorbent products exist that are
designed to be worn or otherwise associated with the body for
absorbing body fluids. Such absorbent products can include, but are
not limited to, diapers, training pants, adult incontinence
products, feminine hygiene products, bed liners, bandages, and the
like. In some embodiments, the absorbent articles contain a cover
material, a liner, and an absorbent structure positioned in between
the outer cover and the liner. The absorbent structure typically
contains superabsorbent particles. Many absorbent articles,
especially those sold under the trade name HUGGIES.RTM. by the
Kimberly-Clark Corporation, are so efficient at absorbing liquids
that it is sometimes difficult for the wearer or the caregiver to
tell whether or not the absorbent article has been insulted with a
body fluid, such as urine.
[0002] Accordingly, various types of moisture or wetness indicators
have been suggested for use in absorbent articles. The wetness
indicators can be used for different purposes. For instance, the
wetness indicators can be designed to assist parents or attendants
by helping them identify a wet diaper condition early on.
[0003] Wetness indicators can also be used as a training aid for
small children during the toilet training process. For example,
wetness indicators can be designed to discourage small children
from wetting the absorbent article and to encourage small children
to use a toilet like an adult.
[0004] Wetness indicators used in the past have included wetness
indicator graphics that have been printed on the absorbent article.
Absorbent articles having wetness indicator graphics, for instance,
are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,297,424, in U.S. Pat. No.
6,710,221, and in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2006/0149197, which are all incorporated herein by reference.
Although the above patents have provided great advances in the art,
further improvements are still needed.
[0005] For instance, prior commercial wetness indicator graphics
have been created using water soluble inks that dissolve when wet.
Thus, once contacted with urine, the graphics smear and fade
indicating that the absorbent article is wet. Unfortunately,
however, graphics produced with water soluble inks have been
somewhat limited in size, shape, position, line width, color and
the like in order to ensure sufficient fading when contacted with
urine.
[0006] Such fading graphics have been found to be somewhat
difficult to discern by either the child wearing the absorbent
article or by a caregiver or attendant. Thus, a need exists for
absorbent articles that include changing graphics which are more
noticeable to the user and/or to the caregiver. In particular, a
need exists for an absorbent article with changing graphics that
are more engaging and have more appeal than many prior commercial
products.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present disclosure is generally directed to absorbent
articles having active graphics. The active graphics are graphics
that change or are activated when contacted with an activation
agent. In one embodiment, for instance, the absorbent article
includes at least one appearing graphic and at least one
disappearing graphic. The active graphics can be designed to change
when contacted with various activation agents. In one embodiment,
for instance, the activation agent that causes the graphics to
change may comprise a body exudate, such as urine or a component in
urine. In this manner, the active graphics can be used as a wetness
indicator. In addition to active graphics, the absorbent article
may also include permanent graphics that together with the active
graphics depict an overall scene. As will be described in greater
detail below, the various embodiments of the present disclosure
provide for an improved noticeable change in appearance when the
absorbent article contacts an activation agent. In one embodiment,
the present disclosure allows the wearer of the absorbent article
or allows a caregiver to more readily notice when the absorbent
article has been wetted.
[0008] Prior to describing the embodiments of the present
disclosure in detail, the following are definitions of various
terms.
[0009] The term "active graphic" as used herein refers to an
appearing graphic, a disappearing graphic, a color changing graphic
or a combination thereof. The term "appearing graphic" is used
herein to refer to a graphic that becomes visible (appears) or
becomes significantly more visible when exposed to an activation
agent. Conversely, the term "disappearing graphic" is used herein
to refer to a graphic that becomes invisible (disappears) or
significantly less visible when exposed to an activation agent,
such as a body exudate, such as urine, fecal matter, a vaginal
secretion or a nasal discharge.
[0010] In particular embodiments, the active graphic can comprise a
fading graphic which is formed from an ink that is soluble in
aqueous solutions such as a body exudate. The ink is positioned in
the absorbent article so that it becomes wet and dissolves when the
product is insulted with a liquid. Once dissolved, the ink washes
away from the outer cover and is obscured by the outer cover. As a
result, the active graphic seems to disappear from view.
[0011] Suitable urine-soluble inks are available from a variety of
commercial vendors, such as Sun Chemical Corp. of Philadelphia,
Pa., USA under the trade designation AQUA DESTRUCT. Particular
urine-soluble compositions are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,022,211
issued May 10, 1977 to Timmons et al., which is incorporated herein
by reference. The ink color can be selected to provide a pleasing
appearance and graphic impact, including fading rapidly upon
contact with liquid.
[0012] The active graphic can also comprise a color changing
graphic which is formed from a composition such as an ink or
adhesive that changes color when exposed to an aqueous solution
such as urine. A color change composition can be adapted to blend
in with a background or surrounding color, either before or after
exposure to the aqueous solution or to undergo a more noticeable
color change. Suitable compositions of this color-change type are
available from a variety of commercial vendors, such as a
pH-change/color-change hot melt adhesive available from Findley
Adhesives, Inc. of Wauwatosa, Wis., USA. Alternatively, the active
graphic can comprise pH sensitive inks, fugitive inks, colored
absorbent particles, hydratable salts, moisture sensitive films,
enzymes, heat sensitive inks and dyes, or the like.
[0013] In one embodiment, a color changing active graphic
composition may comprise a matrix-forming component, a colorant, a
surfactant and a pH adjuster. The matrix-forming component may be a
water-insoluble, film-forming polymer or an ink base, such as a
flexographic varnish having an organic solvent base. The colorant
can be a pH indicator, such as a charged pH indicator, capable of
changing color in response to the presence of a fluid. The
surfactant may include a charged surfactant that attracts the
colorant or a combination of charged surfactants that attract the
colorant and a neutral surfactant. The pH adjuster may include a
low molecular weight organic acid and a high molecular weight
organic acid.
[0014] The matrix-forming component may comprise, for instance, an
acrylate/acrylamide copolymer, a polyurethane adhesive,
methylcellulose, and/or copolymers of vinylpyrrolidone and
dimethylaminopropyl methacrylamide. Such color changing
compositions are disclosed, for instance, in U.S. patent
application Ser. Nos. 12/503,364 or 12/503,380, which are
incorporated herein by reference.
[0015] In another embodiment, a color-changing composition is used
that is water-resistant and water-insoluble. The color-changing
composition can form thin films of various patterns and shapes on a
substrate upon drying and the films can generate color upon contact
with an aqueous medium. In one embodiment, the composition includes
various components dissolved in a volatile organic solvent medium.
The components can comprise a leuco dye or a combination of leuco
dyes, an electron-withdrawing color developer or a combination of
color developers that can form color complexes when associated with
the leuco dye under the proper conditions, and a separator or
combination of separators, which when dissolved in the system in an
adequate quantity, can prevent the formation of the color
complexes. In one embodiment, the components can be contained
within a polymeric encapsulation matrix. The encapsulating matrix
can contain at least one kind of polymeric resin that can form a
thin film on substrate surfaces with good adhesion. In addition to
the above, the solution may also contain various other additives to
adjust physical properties.
[0016] Leuco dyes are generally referred to as colorless or
pale-colored basic dyes, because the dye molecules can acquire two
forms, one of which is colorless. Although not intended to be bound
by theory, it is believed that the color-developer agent functions
as a Lewis acid, which withdraws electrons from the leuco dye
molecule to generate a conjugated system. Hence, the leuco dye
appears to manifest color from an originally colorless state.
[0017] For example, the spiro form of an oxazine is a colorless
leuco dye; the conjugated system of the oxazine and another
aromatic part of the molecule is separated by an
sp.sup.3-hybridized "spiro" carbon. After protonating a part of the
molecule, irradiation with UV-light or introducing other kind of
such change, the bond between the spiro carbon and the oxazine
interrupts, the ring opens, the spiro carbon achieves sp.sup.2
hybridization and becomes planar, the aromatic group rotates,
aligns its .pi.-orbitals with the rest of the molecule, and a
conjugated system forms, with ability to absorb photons of visible
light, and therefore appear colorful.
[0018] The leuco dyes that may be employed can be selected from a
variety of dyes including, for example, phthalide leuco dyes,
triarylmethane leuco dyes, and fluoran leuco dyes. Examples may
include (1) Triarylmethane-based dyes, e.g.
3,3-bis(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-6-dimethylaminophthalide,
3,3-bis(p-dimethylaminophenyl)phthalide,
3-(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-3-(1,2-dimethylindol-3-yl)phthalide,
3-(p-dimethylaminophenyl)-3-(2-methylindol-3-yl)phthalide,
3,3-bis(1,2-dimethylindol-3-yl)-5-dimethylaminophthalide,
3,3-bis(1,2-dimethylindol-3-yl)-6-dimethylaminophthalide,
3,3-bis(9-ethylcarbazol-3-yl)-6-dimethylaminophthalide,
3,3-bis(2-phenylindol-3-yl)-6-dimethylaminophthalide,
3-p-dimethylaminophenyl-3-(1-methylpyrrol-3-yl)-6-dimethylanninophthalide-
, etc. (2) Diphenylmethane-based dyes, e.g.,
4,4'-bisdimethylaminobenzhydryl benzyl ether,
N-halophenylleucoauramine, N-2, 4,5-trichlorophenyl-leucoauramine,
etc. (3) Lactam-based dyes, e.g., rhodamine-B-anilinolactam,
rhodamine-(p-nitroanilino)lactam,
rhodamine-(o-chloroanilino)lactam, etc. (4) Fluoran-based dyes,
e.g., 3-dimethylamino-7-methoxyfluoran,
3-diethylamino-6-methoxyfluoran, 3-di-ethylamino-7-methoxyfluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-chlorofluoran,
3-diethylamino-6-methyl-7-chlorofluoran,
3-di-ethylamino-6,7-dimethylfluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-p-toluidino)-7-methylfluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-(N-acetyl-N-methylamino)fluoran, fluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-(N-methylamino)fluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-dibenzylaminofluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-(N-methyl-N-benzylamino)fluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-(N-chloroethyl-N-methylamino)fluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-N-diethylaminofluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-p-toluidino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-p-toluidino)-6-methyl-7-(p-toluidino)fluoran,
3-diethylamino-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-dibutylamino-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-(2-carbomethoxyphenylamino)fluoran,
3-(N-cyclohexyl-N-methylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-pyrrolidino-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-piperidino-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-diethylamino-6-methyl-7-(2,4-dimethylamino)fluoran,
3-diethylamino-7-(o-chlorophenylamino)fluoran,
3-dibutylamino-7-(o-chlorophenylamino)fluoran,
3-pyrrolidino-6-methyl-7-(p-butylphenylamino)fluoran,
3-(N-methyl-N-n-amylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-N-n-amylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-N-isoamylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofuluoran,
3-(N-methyl-N-n-hexylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-N-n-hexylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
3-(N-ethyl-N-.beta.-ethylhexylamino)-6-methyl-7-phenylaminofluoran,
etc. The basic dyes useful in this invention are not limited to
those exemplified above, and at least two of them can be used in
admixture.
[0019] The separator or desensitizer can be any of known component
agent which exhibit good solubility in both water and organic
solvents. Generally, the separators are preferred to be neutral
molecules that are without a charge, such as polyalkylene glycol of
<1000 Daltons, polyalkylene oxide of <10000 Daltons, block
copolymers of polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycol,
polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene distyrenated
phenyl ether, neutral surfactants. Other examples of such
separators may include glycerin; dodecylamine;
2,4,4-trimethyl-2-oxazoline; polyolefin glycols such as
polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol and copolymer of ethylene
glycol and propylene glycol; polyoxyethylene lauryl ether,
polyoxyethylene oleyl ether, polyoxyethylene nonyl phenyl ether,
polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, polyethylene glycol
monostearate.
[0020] Generally, the color-developers exhibit good solubility in
organic solvents. Examples of suitable developers include bisphenol
A, zinc chloride, zinc salicylate, and phenol resins. Other
examples of color developing materials to be used conjointly with
the lecuo dyes may include: 4-tert-butylphenol, .alpha.-naphthol,
.beta.-naphthol, 4-acetylphenol, 4-tert-octylphenol,
4,4'-sec-butylidenephenol, 4-phenylphenol,
4,4'-dihydroxydiphenylmethane, 4,4'-isopropylidene diphenol,
hydroquinone, 4,4'-cyclohexylidene diphenol, 4,4-dihydroxy
diphenylsulfide, 4,4'-thiobis(6-tert-butyl-3-methylphenol),
4,4'-dihydroxydiphenyl sulfone, hydroquinone monobenzyl ether,
4-hydroxybenzophenone, 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone,
2,4,4'-trihydroxybenzophenone, 2,2',4,4'-tetrahydroxybenzophenone,
dimethyl 4-hydroxyphthalate, methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, ethyl
4-hydroxybenzoate, propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, sec-butyl
4-hydroxybenzoate, pentyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, phenyl
4-hydroxybenzoate, benzyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, tolyl
4-hydroxybenzoate, chlorophenyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, phenylpropyl
4-hydroxybenzoate, phenethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, p-chlorobenzyl
4-hydroxybenzoate, p-methoxybenzyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, novolak type
phenol resins, phenol polymers and like phenol compounds.
[0021] Examples of suitable encapsulating polymers may include, for
instance, Gantrez series polymers from International Specialty
Products, Inc., Dermacryl 97 from National Starch, and Amphomers
from Akzo Nobel. The encapsulation matrix may also be a mixture of
various chemicals dissolved in an organic solvent system. Examples
of such a system may include organic solvent-based varnishes, such
as varnishes made by Sunchemical Co. Examples of polymers and
copolymers that are substantially soluble in organic solvents may
include: styrene-butadiene copolymers, acrylic acid ester polymers,
polyvinyl acetates, polyvinyl chlorides; polyvinylbutyral,
polyvinyl acetate, vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer, acrylic
resin, styrene resin, polyester resin, and polyvinyl acetate, vinyl
chloridevinyl acetate copolymer, styrene-maleic anhydride
copolymer, isobutylene-maleic anhydride copolymer, polyvinyl
butyral.
[0022] The above composition also contains a volatile organic
solvent system. Examples of such volatile organic solvents or a
mixing solvent system may include low-molecular weight alcohols,
such as butanol, ethanol, propanol, and acetone or tetrahydrofuran
or their mixtures.
[0023] In addition to ink compositions (which includes dyes), the
active graphic can also comprise an adhesive, or any other suitable
chemical.
[0024] In contrast to active graphics, the term "permanent graphic"
is used herein to refer to a graphic that does not substantially
change its degree of visibility when the absorbent article is
insulted with urine in simulated use conditions. The change in
visibility of a graphic or a portion of a graphic can be determined
based on a person's observation of the graphic before and after the
article containing the graphic is exposed to liquid. For purposes
hereof, an article is exposed to liquid by immersing the article
completely in an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent
sodium chloride, used at room temperature (.apprxeq.23.degree. C.),
for a period of twenty minutes. After 20 minutes the product is
removed from the aqueous solution and placed on a TEFLON.TM. coated
fiberglass screen having 0.25 inch openings, which is commercially
available from Taconic Plastics Inc., Petersberg, N.Y., USA, which
in turn is placed on a vacuum box and covered with a flexible
rubber dam material. A vacuum of 3.5 kilopascals (0.5 pounds per
square inch) is drawn in the vacuum box for a period of 5 minutes,
after which the article is removed and observed. The person with
normal or corrected vision of 20-20 should make the observations
from a distance of 1 meter in an environment providing 30
footcandles (320 Lux) of illumination. Changes in the visibility of
the graphic should be identified, and distinguished where necessary
from changes in the color of other materials such as fluff pulp
within an absorbent assembly. Desirably, the permanent graphic can
be configured so that the entire graphic also does not
substantially change its appearance, size or shape when the product
is insulted with liquid or exposed to the environment.
[0025] The graphics of the absorbent article can be constructed to
provide a story line involving a permanent character graphic and an
active object graphic. The term "character graphic" is used herein
to refer to a graphic containing an anthropomorphous image, and in
particular an image having or suggesting human form or appearance
which ascribes human motivations, characteristics or behavior to
inanimate objects, animals, natural phenomena, cartoon characters,
or the like. The character graphics can comprise permanent
graphics, active graphics, or both permanent and active
graphics.
[0026] The character graphic can desirably comprise a portion of
the entire absorbent article graphic that sets up a theme for the
illustrated scene. As such, the character graphic can provide an
opportunity for educational interaction between the child and the
parent or caregiver. More specifically, the parent or caregiver can
use the graphic story-line to make up a game or story for the
purpose of toilet training progress.
[0027] Suitable character graphics can include animals, people,
inanimate objects, natural phenomena, cartoon characters, or the
like that can or can not be provided with human features such as
arms, legs, facial features or the like. For purposes of enhanced
toilet training, it may be desirable for the character graphic to
be familiar to the child, such as an identifiable cartoon
character. The character graphics should at least be a type that
the child can relate to, examples of which could include animals,
toys, licensed characters, or the like. Character graphics can be
made more personable and friendly to the child by including
human-Like features, human-like expressions, apparel, abilities, or
the like. By way of illustration, an animal character graphic can
be shown smiling, wearing clothing, playing sports, fishing,
driving, playing with toys, or the like. In particular embodiments,
the character graphic can desirably be created to project an
appearance that could be described as friendly, positive,
non-intimidating, silly, independent, inspirational, active,
expressive, dauntless and/or persevering. Characters and other
elements can be selected for use with an absorbent article in order
to enhance the experience and improve the aesthetic qualities of
the article. Graphics comprising themes, characters and other
elements can also be designed to focus on a particular gender. For
example, commercial print processes, product construction
materials, graphical themes, and active graphics can be selected to
focus either on a boy/male gender or on a girl/female gender.
[0028] In general, absorbent articles made in accordance with the
present disclosure contain graphics comprising multiple objects
such as various images and/or characters. All of the graphics can
be assembled together on the absorbent article so as to present an
integrated look that depicts a scene. In addition to characters and
other images as described above, the scene can include outlines, a
background, a foreground, and one or more silhouettes.
[0029] An "outline" refers to the lines by which the essential
features or main aspects of an image, object or character is
defined or bound. In one embodiment, for instance, a character
appearing on an absorbent article may include an outline made from
permanent graphics or from white space. Within the outline, the
character may be colored using active graphics.
[0030] As used herein, the "background" of a scene is the surface
against which represented objects and forms are perceived or
depicted. The background is situated behind the location of an
image or object. Each scene includes a background. In addition,
various elements within the scene may also include a
background.
[0031] As used herein, the "foreground" describes the location of
an image or object which is situated in front of something. As
understood by one skilled in the art, an object may be both in the
foreground and the background.
[0032] A "silhouette" is a representation of the general shape of
an object, image or character without the essential features or
main aspects of the object filled in. The silhouette, for instance,
excludes the graphic details or elements intended to show the
dimensionality or recognition of the image or character such as
facial features, clothing details, flower petals, and the like. A
silhouette may also comprise a dark image outlined against a
lighter background or vice versa.
[0033] The present disclosure, as described above, can be directed
to applying graphics to an absorbent article including a surface,
such as an inside or outside surface. The surface can have a
"printable surface area" which is defined as the surface area of a
rectangle which has a length measured from the front edge of the
absorbent article to the back edge of the absorbent article and has
a width measured as the narrowest portion of the surface, such as
the outer cover, which is usually within the crotch region. It
should be understood that the permanent and active graphics
contained on an absorbent article may have a width that is greater
than the width of the printable surface area as defined.
[0034] As used herein, the "active graphic surface area" refers to
the surface area upon which the active graphic composition has been
applied. The "active graphic perimeter surface area", on the other
hand, refers to the area defined by the perimeter of the outer most
elements of the active graphic and may include areas within the
perimeter where an active graphic composition has not been
applied.
[0035] The outer cover can also include "white space". White space
is defined as the predominate color of the surface of the absorbent
article. The white space, for instance, may be the color of the
material used to create a surface of the absorbent article prior to
being treated with any printed graphics. For example, the white
space may comprise the natural color of the material used to form a
surface of the absorbent article. In one embodiment, the white
space present on the absorbent article is white in color and has a
white appearance. The white space can be formed from a non-printed
area on a substrate or can comprise an area that has been printed
or treated with a pigment or ink if it is the predominant color. In
one embodiment of the present disclosure, the active graphics fade,
disappear, turn clear, or turn the same color as the white space
which increases the white space on the outer cover. Alternatively,
the active graphics can turn from the white space color to another
color thus decreasing the white space on the outer cover.
[0036] In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to an
absorbent article comprising an outer cover having an interior
surface and an exterior surface. An absorbent structure is
positioned adjacent to the interior surface of the outer cover. In
one embodiment, the absorbent article can further include a liquid
permeable liner. The absorbent structure can be positioned in
between the outer cover and the liquid permeable liner. White space
is also formed from materials under the outer cover; these
materials (e.g., fluff/SAM of absorbent system) create a non
colored "white" surface that can reflect incident light and create
a more opaque/solid white appearance for one viewing the product
from exterior. The naturally occurring color may be white,
off-white, yellowish, etc. depending on whether whitening agents or
other treatments are added to the internal absorbent article
components.
[0037] In accordance with the present disclosure, graphics are
incorporated into the absorbent article such that the graphics are
visible from a surface of the article. The graphics, for instance,
can be visible from the inside surface of the article (i.e. the
surface that faces the wearer) or from an outside surface of the
article. The graphics can depict a scene on the absorbent article.
The graphics include a first active graphic and a second active
graphic. The first active graphic comprises a disappearing graphic,
while the second active graphic comprises an appearing graphic. The
disappearing graphic and the appearing graphic, for instance, may
undergo a change when contacted with an activation agent, such as a
body fluid.
[0038] Having a disappearing graphic appear in combination with an
appearing graphic can offer various benefits and advantages. For
example, when the graphics are contacted with an activation agent,
various images in a scene may disappear, while other images may
simultaneously or over time appear. Such a change in the appearance
of the absorbent article can be dramatic and very noticeable to the
wearer and/or to the caregiver.
[0039] In one embodiment, for instance, the graphics on the
absorbent article depict an object, such as a character. An
"object" as used herein generally refers to any image created by
the graphics. The first active graphic and the second active
graphic may cause the object to change into a different object when
contacted with the activation agent. For example, the active
graphics may cause a character to change into a different character
when the graphics are contacted by an activation agent. In another
embodiment, the graphics may include a background scene and/or a
foreground scene. The appearing graphics and disappearing graphics
can be used to cause the background scene to change into a
different background scene and/or can cause the foreground scene to
change into a different foreground scene. The background scene
and/or the foreground scene can also change in combination with
changes to one or more focal images in the scene, such as a
character.
[0040] In one embodiment, the disappearing graphics and the
appearing graphics may work in conjunction to provide an illusion
of movement of an object in the scene. For instance, the first
active graphic may depict a first image and the second active
graphic may depict a second image. The first image and the second
image may be of the same object in the scene at different
positions. Thus, when the first image disappears and the second
image appears, the object appears to move. The object, for
instance, may be a ball, a toy, or an animal. The object may also
be a character or a portion of a character, such as a character's
arm. In yet another embodiment, the object may be a vehicle, such
as a car, a truck, an airplane, a bicycle, a motorcycle, or the
like.
[0041] In one embodiment, the graphics may include more than one
disappearing graphic and more than one appearing graphic so that
multiple objects appear to move in the scene when the absorbent
article is contacted with an activation agent.
[0042] In general, the disappearing graphics and the appearing
graphics can overlap on the absorbent article or be in a
non-overlapping relationship. In one embodiment, the active
graphics also have a relatively large size to ensure that the
graphics can be noticed.
[0043] In accordance with the present disclosure, in one
embodiment, the at least one active graphic can have a surface area
of greater than about 800 mm.sup.2, such as greater than about 1000
mm.sup.2. In one embodiment, one or more active graphics can occupy
all of the surface area of the outer cover, such as the entire
printable surface area of the outer cover. The active graphic in
various embodiments may have a surface area of less than about
140,000 mm.sup.2, such as less than about 45,000 mm.sup.2, such as
less than about 20,000 mm.sup.2, such as less than about 8000
mm.sup.2 depending on the type and size of the article (adult
article versus child article).
[0044] As described above, the outer cover may define a printable
surface area. In one embodiment, the active graphic may occupy
greater than 1% of the printable surface area of the outer cover,
such as greater than about 1.2%, such as greater than about 1.4% of
the printable surface area of the outer cover.
[0045] The absorbent article can generally be divided into three
regions. For instance, the absorbent article can include a front
region, a back region, and a crotch region in between the front
region and the back region. In one particular embodiment, each of
the regions can have substantially the same length in the
longitudinal direction. The active graphics can be primarily
located in the crotch region or completely located in the crotch
region. As used herein, the term "primarily" means that more than
50% of the outline be located in the crotch region.
[0046] In an alternative embodiment, the active graphics can be
primarily located in the front region or completely located in the
front region. In general, the active graphics can be positioned at
any suitable location on the absorbent article. The location of
various active graphics on absorbent articles, for instance, are
shown and/or described in U.S. Pending Application Publication No.
2006/0149197 or in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2009/0062757, which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0047] The outside surface or the inside surface of the absorbent
article may also be divided into two halves in the longitudinal
direction. For instance, the absorbent article can include a front
half and a back half. The front half extends from the front edge of
the article to the midpoint of the article between the front edge
and the back edge. The back half of the absorbent article, on the
other hand, may extend from the back edge of the article to the
midpoint. The front half and the back half can each include a
printable surface area that is generally one half of the printable
surface area of the entire outside surface or inside surface. In
many applications, the active graphics and/or permanent graphics
can all be present only on the front half or only on the back half
of the absorbent article.
[0048] In one embodiment, the absorbent article can include a waist
opening opposite the midpoint of the article and the disappearing
active graphics may be positioned closer to the midpoint in
relation to the appearing active graphics. In this manner, the
disappearing graphics may disappear before the appearing graphics
appear, especially if the activation agent is a body fluid, such as
urine. For instance, as the urine migrates through the absorbent
article, the urine will first contact the disappearing graphics and
then contact the appearing graphics. Of course, depending upon the
desired result, the order or position of the active graphics may
also be reversed.
[0049] The manner in which the active graphics and/or permanent
graphics are incorporated into the absorbent article can vary
depending upon the particular application. In one embodiment, for
instance, the active graphics can be disposed on the interior
surface of the outer cover, while the permanent graphics can be
disposed on the exterior surface of the outer cover. Placing the
active graphics on the interior surface of the outer cover ensures
that the active graphics come into contact with urine when the
absorbent article is insulted. In one embodiment, the outer cover
may include a liquid permeable outer layer and a liquid impermeable
inner layer. The at least one active graphic can be disposed on the
surface of the inner layer that forms the interior surface of the
outer cover. Permanent graphics, on the other hand, may be disposed
on the opposite surface of the inner layer or on the same
surface.
[0050] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are
discussed in greater detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention,
including the best mode thereof to one skilled in the art, is set
forth more particularly in the remainder of the specification,
including reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
[0052] FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 are plan views of one embodiment of an
absorbent article made in accordance with the present disclosure
including active graphics;
[0053] FIGS. 4 and 5 are plan views of an alternative embodiment of
an absorbent article in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0054] FIGS. 6 and 7 are plan views of an alternative embodiment of
an absorbent article in accordance with the present disclosure;
and
[0055] FIGS. 8 and 9 are plan views of another alternative
embodiment of an absorbent article in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0056] Repeat use of reference characters in the present
specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or
analogous features or elements of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0057] It is to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art
that the present discussion is a description of exemplary
embodiments only, and is not intended as limiting the broader
aspects of the present disclosure.
[0058] In general, the present disclosure is directed to absorbent
articles incorporating multiple active graphics alone or in
combination with permanent graphics. The active graphics can
include, for instance, a combination of disappearing graphics,
appearing graphics, and/or color-changing graphics. The use of
disappearing and appearing graphics together in an absorbent
article provides various benefits and advantages. For instance, the
appearing and disappearing graphics can be used to produce the
illusion of motion of an object on the absorbent article. In
addition, appearing and disappearing graphics may be used in
combination to change a complete scene on the absorbent article, a
character on the absorbent article, the background scene on the
absorbent article, the foreground scene on the absorbent article or
combinations thereof. As used herein, a complete scene change
occurs when the focal images in the scene change in conjunction
with changes in the background and/or the foreground. For example,
if the focal image of a graphic is a character, a complete scene
change occurs when the character changes into a different character
or changes expression and appearance in conjunction with other
changes in the scenery.
[0059] The active graphics used in the present disclosure can
undergo a change when contacted with an activation agent. The
activation agent can vary depending upon the particular application
and the desired result. Activation agents that may be used include,
for instance, pH change, temperature change, contact with an
analyte, contact with a microbial load, or even contact with air.
In one embodiment, the activation agent may comprise a body
exudate, such as urine. For instance, if desired, the active
graphics may be used as a wetness indicator. When used as a wetness
indicator, the active graphics may not only be used to signal a
caregiver that the absorbent article has been wetted, but may also
be used as a tool for toilet training.
[0060] In one embodiment, the graphics appearing on the absorbent
article not only include a combination of appearing graphics,
disappearing graphics, and/or color changing graphics, but may also
include a combination of active graphics and permanent graphics.
For example, the active graphics and permanent graphics may be
interrelated to display an overall scene with a common storyline.
The permanent graphics may be used to accentuate the active
graphics for providing a very prominent change when the absorbent
article is wetted.
[0061] In one embodiment, for instance, the scene depicted upon the
absorbent article provides an integrated, one-piece look that can
be consistent with a background color that covers substantially the
entire outer cover and side panels. The absorbent article can
include graphics that, in one embodiment, eliminate a substantial
amount of white area in the crotch region of the absorbent article
and highlights the location of the active graphics when the product
is dry. When contacted with an activation agent, the active
graphics offer a dramatic visual change without compromising the
integrated appearance of the product. The active graphics of the
present disclosure can be incorporated into all sizes of absorbent
articles and can be designed to appeal to a certain gender.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3, for instance, one embodiment
of an absorbent article 10 made in accordance with the present
disclosure is shown. In the figures, a child's training pant is
generally shown. It should be understood, however, that the
inventive concepts described herein can be applied to any suitable
absorbent article, such as a diaper, an adult incontinence product,
a feminine hygiene product or the like.
[0063] In the figures, the active graphics and permanent graphics
are shown to be visible from an outside surface of the absorbent
article, such as by being applied to the outer cover. It should be
understood, however, that the graphics may also be applied so as to
be visible from an inside surface of the article. For instance,
when applied to a feminine hygiene product, the graphics may more
appropriately be placed to be visible from the inside surface which
is adjacent to the body of the wearer. In order to be visible from
the inside surface, the active graphics may be applied to a liquid
permeable bodyside liner, to a surge layer, to a portion of the
absorbent core, or even to the outer cover material in certain
embodiments.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 3, absorbent articles generally include an
outer cover 12 that includes an exterior surface and an interior
surface. Located adjacent the interior surface is an absorbent
structure 15. Optionally, the absorbent article can also include a
liquid permeable inner lining 14. The absorbent structure can be
placed in between the outer cover 12 and the inner lining 14. The
absorbent article 10 can further include elastic waistbands 16 and
18 and elastic leg members 20 and 22.
[0065] The absorbent article 10 as shown in FIG. 1 can be made from
various materials. The outer cover 12 may be made from a material
that is substantially liquid impermeable, and can be elastic,
stretchable or nonstretchable. The outer cover 12 can be a single
layer of liquid impermeable material, or may include a
multi-layered laminate structure in which at least one of the
layers is liquid impermeable. For instance, the outer cover 12 can
include a liquid permeable outer layer and a liquid impermeable
inner layer, such as a translucent or transparent film, that are
suitably joined together by a laminate adhesive.
[0066] For example, in one embodiment, the liquid permeable outer
layer may be a spunbond polypropylene nonwoven web. The spunbond
web may have, for instance, a basis weight of from about 15 gsm to
about 25 gsm.
[0067] The inner layer, on the other hand, can be both liquid and
vapor impermeable, or can be liquid impermeable and vapor
permeable. The inner layer is suitably manufactured from a thin
plastic film, although other flexible liquid impermeable materials
may also be used. The inner layer prevents waste material from
wetting articles such as bedsheets and clothing, as well as the
wearer and caregiver. A suitable liquid impermeable film may be a
polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.2 mm.
[0068] A suitable breathable material that may be used as the inner
layer is a microporous polymer film or a nonwoven fabric that has
been coated or otherwise treated to impart a desired level of
liquid impermeability. Other "non-breathable" elastic films that
may be used as the inner layer include films made from block
copolymers, such as styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene or
styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymers.
[0069] As described above, the absorbent structure is positioned in
between the outer cover and a liquid permeable bodyside liner 14.
The bodyside liner 14 is suitably compliant, soft feeling, and
non-irritating to the wearer's skin. The bodyside liner 14 can be
manufactured from a wide variety of web materials, such as
synthetic fibers, natural fibers, a combination of natural and
synthetic fibers, porous foams, reticulated foams, apertured
plastic films, or the like. Various woven and nonwoven fabrics can
be used for the bodyside liner 14. For example, the bodyside liner
can be made from a meltblown or spunbonded web of polyolefin
fibers. The bodyside liner can also be a bonded-carded web composed
of natural and/or synthetic fibers.
[0070] A suitable liquid permeable bodyside liner 14 is a nonwoven
bicomponent web having a basis weight of about 27 gsm. The nonwoven
bicomponent can be a spunbond bicomponent web, or a bonded carded
bicomponent web. Suitable bicomponent staple fibers include a
polyethylene/polypropylene bicomponent fiber. In this particular
embodiment, the polypropylene forms the core and the polyethylene
forms the sheath of the fiber. Other fiber orientations, however,
are possible.
[0071] The material used to form the absorbent structure, for
example, may include cellulosic fibers (e.g., wood pulp fibers),
other natural fibers, synthetic fibers, woven or nonwoven sheets,
scrim netting or other stabilizing structures, superabsorbent
material, binder materials, surfactants, selected hydrophobic
materials, pigments, lotions, odor control agents or the like, as
well as combinations thereof. In a particular embodiment, the
absorbent web material is a matrix of cellulosic fluff and
superabsorbent hydrogel-forming particles. The cellulosic fluff may
comprise a blend of wood pulp fluff. One preferred type of fluff is
identified with the trade designation CR 1654, available from US
Alliance Pulp Mills of Coosa, Ala., USA, and is a bleached, highly
absorbent wood pulp containing primarily soft wood fibers. As a
general rule, the superabsorbent material is present in the
absorbent web in an amount of from about 0 to about 90 weight
percent based on total weight of the web. The web may have a
density within the range of about 0.1 to about 0.45 grams per cubic
centimeter.
[0072] Superabsorbent materials are well known in the art and can
be selected from natural, synthetic, and modified natural polymers
and materials. The superabsorbent materials can be inorganic
materials, such as silica gels, or organic compounds, such as
crosslinked polymers. Typically, a superabsorbent material is
capable of absorbing at least about 15 times its weight in liquid,
and suitably is capable of absorbing more than about 25 times its
weight in liquid. Suitable superabsorbent materials are readily
available from various suppliers. For example, FAVOR SXM 880
superabsorbent is available from Stockhausen, Inc., of Greensboro,
N.C., USA; and Drytech 2035 is available from Dow Chemical Company,
of Midland, Mich., USA.
[0073] In addition to cellulosic fibers and superabsorbent
materials, the absorbent pad structures may also contain adhesive
elements and/or synthetic fibers that provide stabilization and
attachment when appropriately activated. Additives such as
adhesives may be of the same or different aspect from the
cellulosic fibers; for example, such additives may be fibrous,
particulate, or in liquid form; adhesives may possess either a
curable or a heat-set property. Such additives can enhance the
integrity of the bulk absorbent structure, and alternatively or
additionally may provide adherence between facing layers of the
folded structure.
[0074] The absorbent materials may be formed into a web structure
by employing various conventional methods and techniques. For
example, the absorbent web may be formed with a dry-forming
technique, an airlaying technique, a carding technique, a meltblown
or spunbond technique, a wet-forming technique, a foam-forming
technique, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Layered
and/or laminated structures may also be suitable. Methods and
apparatus for carrying out such techniques are well known in the
art.
[0075] The absorbent web material may also be a coform material.
The term "coform material" generally refers to composite materials
comprising a mixture or stabilized matrix of thermoplastic fibers
and a second non-thermoplastic material. As an example, coform
materials may be made by a process in which at least one meltblown
die head is arranged near a chute through which other materials are
added to the web while it is forming. Such other materials may
include, but are not limited to, fibrous organic materials such as
woody or non-woody pulp such as cotton, rayon, recycled paper, pulp
fluff and also superabsorbent particles or fibers, inorganic
absorbent materials, treated polymeric staple fibers and the like.
Any of a variety of synthetic polymers may be utilized as the
melt-spun component of the coform material. For instance, in some
embodiments, thermoplastic polymers can be utilized. Some examples
of suitable thermoplastics that can be utilized include
polyolefins, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene and
the like; polyamides; and polyesters. In one embodiment, the
thermoplastic polymer is polypropylene. Some examples of such
coform materials are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,100,324 to
Anderson, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,284,703 to Everhart, et al.; and
U.S. Pat. No. 5,350,624 to Georger, et al.; which are incorporated
herein in their entirety by reference for all purposes.
[0076] It is also contemplated that elastomeric absorbent web
structures may be used. For example, an elastomeric coform
absorbent structure having from about 35% to about 65% by weight of
a wettable staple fiber, and greater than about 35% to about 65% by
weight of an elastomeric thermoplastic fiber may be used to define
absorbent pad structures according to the invention. Examples of
such elastomeric coform materials are provided in U.S. Pat. No.
5,645,542, incorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes. As
another example, a suitable absorbent elastic nonwoven material may
include a matrix of thermoplastic elastomeric nonwoven filaments
present in an amount of about 3 to less than about 20% by weight of
the material, with the matrix including a plurality of absorbent
fibers and a super-absorbent material each constituting about
20-77% by weight of the material. U.S. Pat. No. 6,362,389 describes
such a nonwoven material and is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety for all purposes. Absorbent elastic nonwoven materials
are useful in a wide variety of personal care articles where
softness and conformability, as well as absorbency and elasticity,
are important.
[0077] The absorbent web may also be a nonwoven web comprising
synthetic fibers. The web may include additional natural fibers
and/or superabsorbent material. The web may have a density in the
range of about 0.1 to about 0.45 grams per cubic centimeter. The
absorbent web can alternatively be a foam.
[0078] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the absorbent article 10 can
include side panels 24 and 26. The side panels 24 and 26 can have a
color that blends with the overall scene appearing on the absorbent
article. The side panels 24 and 26 can be permanently bonded
together or can be releasably attached to one another. In FIG. 3,
for instance, the side panels 24 and 26 are shown in an unattached
state. In general, the side panels 24 and 26 are made from an
elastic material, such as an elastic laminate.
[0079] As shown particularly in FIG. 3, the absorbent article 10
defines a longitudinal center line 30, a transverse center line 32,
a first or front longitudinal end edge 34, and a second or back
longitudinal end edge 36 which form a waist opening. The
longitudinal axis lies in the plane of the article and is generally
parallel to a vertical plane that bisects a standing wearer into
left and right body halves when the article is worn. The transverse
axis lies in the plane of the article generally perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis.
[0080] In general, the absorbent article along the longitudinal
axis can be divided into a front region 40, a back region 44, and a
crotch region 42 positioned in between the front region and the
back region. In one embodiment, the front region, the crotch
region, and the back region can all have approximately the same
length in the longitudinal direction.
[0081] The absorbent article can also be divided into a front half
and a back half. The front half, for instance, may extend in the
longitudinal direction from the front edge to the midpoint of the
product, while the back half may extend from the back edge to the
midpoint of the product.
[0082] As shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, the absorbent article 10
includes various graphics. In the embodiment illustrated, the scene
displayed on the outer cover of the absorbent article includes a
combination of permanent graphics and active graphics. As shown,
the scene depicts a primary focal image which is a giraffe
character 50. The giraffe character 50 is shown holding a
basketball 52. More particularly, the giraffe character 50 is shown
attempting to dunk the basketball 52 into a basket 54. Not shown,
the multiple images can be made from multiple color compositions
for further accentuating the scene and increasing its appeal.
[0083] As described above, the scene shown on the absorbent article
10 includes permanent graphics and active graphics. In one
embodiment, for instance, the giraffe character 50 and the
basketball net 54 may both be made from permanent graphics. In
accordance with the present disclosure, the basketball 52, on the
other hand, may comprise an active graphic, particularly a
disappearing graphic. The basketball 52, for instance, may be
configured to disappear when contacted with an activation
agent.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 2, the scene further includes another
active graphic 56. The active graphic 56 is also an image of a
basketball. The active graphic 56 comprises an appearing graphic
that is configured to appear once the active graphic contacts an
activation agent.
[0085] Thus, in accordance with the present disclosure, the scene
depicted upon the absorbent article 10 includes at least one
disappearing graphic, at least one appearing graphic, and/or at
least one color changing graphic. Once contacted with an activation
agent, for instance, the active graphic 52 or basketball
disappears, while the active graphic 56 or basketball appears. In
this manner, the basketball appears to move in the scene providing
an illusion of motion to a bystander. Specifically, the basketball
appears to be dunked into the basketball net 54 by the giraffe
50.
[0086] In one embodiment, the activation agent that causes the
active graphic 52 to disappear and the active graphic 56 to appear
may be a body exudate, such as urine. Thus, the dunking of the
basketball may indicate to the wearer or a caregiver that the
absorbent article has been wetted. Due to the illusion of motion,
the change in appearance of the article is easily noticeable.
[0087] When urine is the activation agent, the absorbent article
may be designed to ensure that the active graphics are contacted
with the urine when the absorbent article is wetted. In one
embodiment, for instance, the active graphics may be positioned
within or closer to the crotch region. A tradeoff may take place,
for instance, between positioning the active graphics at least
partially within the crotch region while still placing the active
graphics at a location that are easily visible.
[0088] In another embodiment, the absorbent article may include a
wicking layer that immediately wicks urine from the place of insult
to the active graphics. For instance, a wicking strip may be placed
in the article that contacts each of the active graphics. The
wicking layer may be comprised of any suitable material capable of
wicking liquids through the absorbent article. Wicking layers, for
instance, are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2008/0147030 and in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2009/0062757, which are incorporated herein by reference. The
wicking layer, for instance, may comprise a tissue layer, a
nonwoven layer, cellulosic materials, treated nonwovens, synthetic
fibers, natural fibers, open celled foam, or the like. Various
materials can be chosen so as to have an appropriate wicking
speed.
[0089] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3, the
disappearing graphic 52 is positioned farther away from the crotch
region or the transverse center line 32 than the appearing graphic
56. In other embodiments, however, the scene may be changed in
order to reverse the position of the active graphics. For example,
if urine or a component in urine is the activation agent, it may be
desirable for the disappearing graphic to disappear before the
appearing graphic appears to better provide an illusion of motion
of the object. Thus, in an alternative embodiment, the absorbent
article may depict a scene in which the object undergoing motion
includes an appearing graphic that is positioned farther away from
the transverse center line 32 and closer to the waist opening of
the absorbent article in relation to the disappearing graphic.
[0090] For example, in an alternative embodiment, the basketball 52
as shown in FIG. 1 may be placed adjacent to the opposite arm of
the giraffe 50 and below the basket 54. The appearing graphic 56,
on the other hand, may be positioned above the basket as shown in
FIG. 1. Thus, in this embodiment, the disappearing graphic is
positioned closer to the transverse center line 32 than the
appearing graphic. When the absorbent article is wetted, the
disappearing graphic will contact the body fluid before the
appearing graphic as the liquid wicks through the absorbent
article. Thus, in this embodiment, the giraffe 50 will appear to be
shooting the basketball into the basket as opposed to dunking the
basketball.
[0091] It should be understood, however, that in other embodiments
it may be preferable to place the appearing graphic closer to the
transverse center line as opposed to the disappearing graphic. For
instance, depending upon the scene that is created using the
graphics, it may be preferred from an aesthetic viewpoint for a
first graphic to appear prior to a second graphic disappearing.
[0092] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3, the
scene depicted includes one disappearing graphic and one appearing
graphic. It should be understood, however, that in other
embodiments the scene may include multiple appearing graphics
and/or multiple disappearing graphics. For instance, in an
alternative embodiment, the arm of the giraffe 50 may appear to
move as the ball 52 is dunked through the basket 54. In particular,
the arm of the giraffe as shown in FIG. 1 may comprise a
disappearing graphic. The scene may further include an appearing
graphic that comprises another arm of the giraffe in a different
position. In another embodiment, the scene may include other
appearing graphics that may appear as the ball is dunked through
the basket 54. For instance, the scene may further include
appearing graphics that comprise stars or rockets to further
accentuate movement of the basketball.
[0093] In order to make the active graphics noticeable, the active
graphics present on the absorbent article may have a relatively
large size. For example, in one embodiment, the active graphics
present within the scene may occupy greater than 1% of the
printable surface area of the outer cover. For instance, the active
graphics may occupy greater than 1.2% or greater than 1.4% of the
printable surface area of the outer cover. The active graphics
occupying the above proportions of the outer cover surface area is
relatively large in comparison to many prior art products
commercialized in the past.
[0094] In particular, the total surface area occupied by the active
graphics may be greater than 800 mm.sup.2, such as greater than 900
mm.sup.2, such as greater than 1000 mm.sup.2, such as even greater
than 1200 mm.sup.2.
[0095] The active graphics 52 and 56 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can
be produced using various different active graphic compositions.
For instance, the disappearing graphic can be produced using a
disappearing ink composition, while the appearing graphic can be
produced using an appearing ink composition. The particular
compositions used to produce the graphics may depend upon various
factors, including the type of desired activation agent required
for the change.
[0096] In one embodiment, the disappearing graphic may comprise a
water-soluble ink composition that disappears or fades when
contacted with water. The appearing graphic, on the other hand, may
be made from an ink composition that changes from clear to a color
when contacted with water. Both the disappearing graphic and the
appearing graphic can both be made from color-changing
compositions. For example, the disappearing graphic may be made
from a composition that changes color in a manner that causes the
image to disappear. For instance, the composition may change to a
color that is the same color as the background of the absorbent
article. Similarly, the appearing graphic may be comprised of a
color-changing composition that is not discernible or noticeable
until the color change occurs. The initial color of the
composition, for instance, may match or blend the background color
of the scene and then change color to become noticeable.
[0097] The active graphics and permanent graphics used to form the
scene as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be applied to the absorbent
article in different ways. In one embodiment, for instance, the
outer cover 12 of the absorbent article includes multiple layers.
The outer cover 12 may include, for instance, an inner water
impermeable film and an outer water permeable layer that may
comprise, for instance, a nonwoven layer. The inner film may be
clear such that graphics printed on the inner film can be visible
from the exterior surface of the outer cover. As can be
appreciated, when the activation agent is a body fluid, the active
graphics should be applied to the absorbent article such that they
contact any bodily fluids that may be absorbed by the article. In
this regard, the active graphics may be printed on the interior
surface of the outer cover such as on the inner surface of the
inner film. The permanent graphics, however, can be printed on
other layers of the outer cover. The permanent graphics, for
instance, can be printed on the exterior surface of the outer
cover, or can be printed on any of the interior layers either on
the side facing the wearer or on the side opposite the wearer. In
one embodiment, for instance, the active graphics and the permanent
graphics can all be printed on the same surface in a single pass or
in a multi-pass printing process.
[0098] In accordance with the present disclosure, both disappearing
graphics and appearing graphics may be printed or otherwise applied
on the interior surface of the outer cover, such as on the film as
described above, in a single pass or in multiple passes. If the
appearing graphic and disappearing graphic overlap, for instance,
separate passes may be needed in which multiple layers are created
on the inside of the outer cover.
[0099] Alternatively, the appearing and disappearing graphics may
be printed or applied on different sides of a single substrate that
is used to produce the outer cover. In yet another embodiment, the
appearing graphic and the disappearing graphic may be printed or
applied on separate materials and registered during production of
the absorbent article 10.
[0100] The compositions used to make the active graphics can be
formulated in different ways to achieve different results. As
described above, for instance, the ink compositions used to produce
the active graphics can comprise water-soluble ink compositions,
compositions that, when activated, go from clear to a color,
compositions that go from a color to clear, and color-changing
compositions. In one embodiment, conventional inks or pigments,
such as permanent ink compositions, can be combined with the
color-changing compositions to produce a desired effect.
[0101] For example, in one embodiment, a functional ink may be
combined with a conventional ink to produce a certain color. Once
the composition is contacted with an activation agent, a desired
color change may occur. The permanent ink may be blended with the
composition, for instance, so that the active graphic blends in
with the background color on the absorbent article when contacted
with the activation agent or prior to contact with the activation
agent.
[0102] Combining active graphic compositions with permanent graphic
compositions to produce desired color effects can occur in numerous
ways. In one embodiment, for instance, the compositions may be
combined together and then applied to a substrate, such as an
absorbent article. In an alternative embodiment, however, the
desired effect may occur by printing the compositions onto the
substrate in an overlapping manner.
[0103] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, another embodiment of an
absorbent article 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure
is shown. The absorbent article 10 includes an outer cover 12 that
has been printed with permanent graphics and active graphics for
creating a scene. The absorbent article 10 in FIG. 4 is intended to
show the article prior to contact with an activation agent, such as
urine. FIG. 5, however, shows various changes that can occur after
the graphics come in contact with an activation agent.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, the permanent
graphics include a focal character 60 which, in this embodiment,
comprises a caterpillar. The permanent graphics also include a
flower 62, a leaf 64, and a sun 66.
[0105] When contacted with an activation agent, the caterpillar 60
turns into a butterfly as shown in FIG. 5. Various other images in
the foreground and background also disappear and appear. For
instance, as shown in FIG. 4, the scene includes a disappearing
graphic 68 that comprises a leaf. In FIG. 5, multiple appearing
graphics are included. The appearing graphics include butterfly
wings 70, a flower 72, and another flower 74. As shown in FIG. 5,
the leaf upon which the caterpillar 60 was resting in FIG. 4
disappears and the wings 70 appear creating the illusion that the
caterpillar has turned into a butterfly and is now in flight. The
flowers 72 and 74 also appear further enhancing the appeal of the
scene and increasing the noticeability of the change.
[0106] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, another embodiment of an
absorbent article 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure
is shown that also includes permanent graphics combined with active
graphics. FIG. 6 is intended to show the absorbent article 10 prior
to contact with an activation agent. FIG. 7, on the other hand,
shows the absorbent article after contact with an activation agent.
In this embodiment, the background scene changes when the article
is brought into contact with an activation agent, such as a body
fluid.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 6, the absorbent article 10 includes a main
focal image which comprises a princess character 80. The princess
character 80 is made from permanent graphics. Surrounding the
princess character 80 are active graphics, namely a combination of
appearing graphics and disappearing graphics. The disappearing
graphics are shown in FIG. 6, while the appearing graphics are
shown in FIG. 7.
[0108] The disappearing graphics include a grassy meadow image 82
and various flowers 84 which combine together to form a summer
scene.
[0109] When the absorbent article 10 is contacted with an
activation agent, however, the summer scene turns into a winter
scene as shown in FIG. 7. In particular, the disappearing graphics
82 and 84 disappear while appearing graphics become visible. The
appearing graphics include a snow field 86 and various snowflakes
88,
[0110] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the active
graphics are all contained within an outline 90 made from permanent
graphics. The outline 90 can be used to enhance the active graphics
making the change from FIG. 6 to FIG. 7 more noticeable.
[0111] In FIGS. 6 and 7, the disappearing graphics and the
appearing graphics overlap each other in the scene. Thus, as
described above, the active graphic compositions may be applied in
a multi-pass process on the same surface or on opposite surfaces of
the outer cover. If the scene was altered so that the active
graphics do not overlap, however, a single pass printing process
may produce the entire background scene change.
[0112] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, still another embodiment of an
absorbent article made in accordance with the present disclosure is
shown. FIG. 8 is intended to show the absorbent article 10 prior to
contact with an activation agent, while FIG. 9 shows various
changes that occur once an activation is present. The absorbent
article 10 includes a combination of permanent graphics and active
graphics. The active graphics include a combination of disappearing
graphics and an appearing graphic.
[0113] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, a car scene
is depicted. In FIG. 8, the scene includes permanent graphics 100
which comprises the outline of a spiraling road or highway. The
scene further includes a disappearing graphic 104 comprising a car
character and disappearing graphics 102. The disappearing graphics
102 comprise one or more colors that are contained within the
permanent graphics 100.
[0114] When contacted with an activation agent, the character
graphic 104 disappears and the color graphic 102 disappears within
the permanent graphic 100. As shown in FIG. 9, an appearing graphic
106 then becomes visible which comprises another image of the car
character.
[0115] In this embodiment, when comparing FIG. 8 with FIG. 9, the
car character appears to move due to the graphic 104 disappearing
and the graphic 106 appearing. Further, the expression of the car
character changes. In addition, the spiraling road changes from
vibrant colors to only an outline as shown in FIG. 9.
[0116] The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 and the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9 are intended to provide wetness
indicators that may discourage a child from wetting the absorbent
article. In particular, a child may be taught to not wet their
absorbent article or the princess in FIG. 6 will be taken from a
warm summer scene into a winter scene. In FIGS. 8 and 9, the child
can be instructed that wetting the garment may cause the car
character to spin out of control.
[0117] Referring back to FIGS. 8 and 9, the absorbent article 10
further includes a gauge-like graphic 110 that includes gauge
elements 112. The gauge elements 112 comprise disappearing graphics
that disappear when contacted with an activation agent as shown in
FIG. 9. The outline around the gauge elements, on the other hand,
comprises permanent graphics. When used in conjunction with the car
characters 104 and 106, the gauge-like graphic 110 may be used to
further indicate that the absorbent article has come in contact
with an activation agent, such as urine. By including disappearing
graphics 112, the gauge-like graphic may indicate that the car
character 106 has also run out of gas.
[0118] In the above examples, the active and permanent graphics
were applied to the exterior surface of an absorbent article. It
should be understood, however, that the above graphics can be
applied equally so as to be visible from the interior surface of an
absorbent article. In one embodiment, for instance, active graphics
may be applied to both the outside surface and to the inside
surface of the absorbent article.
[0119] When the active graphics are to be visible from an inside
surface of the garment, the active graphics can be applied to a
bodyside liner, a surge material, a wrap sheet that surrounds an
absorbent structure, or may even be applied to the outer cover as
long as the active graphics are visible from the interior.
[0120] These and other modifications and variations to the present
invention may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art,
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention, which is more particularly set forth in the appended
claims. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the
various embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part.
Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that the foregoing description is by way of example only, and is
not intended to limit the invention so further described in such
appended claims.
* * * * *